Patch Q&A: House District 61 GOP Nominee Ron Bolton

NORTHPORT, AL — Retired Northport Police Captain Ron Bolton won handily in the Republican Primary for the open Alabama House of Representatives District 61 seat on Tuesday, securing approximately 59% of the total vote in a district that covers parts of Tuscaloosa and Pickens counties.

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With no Democratic challenger on the Nov. 8 General Election ballot, Bolton is now poised to be the next state representative for his district. This comes after State Rep. Rodney Sullivan, a Northport Republican who currently represents District 61, opted not to run for a second term in the legislature.

Patch caught up with Bolton for a quick question-and-answer session to get to better know the candidate and here's what he had to say.

Ron Bolton

Age: 61

Professional experience: Retired Northport Police Department captain who owns a small governmental strategy LLC.

Education: Attended Holt High School, Associates Degree from Shelton State Community College and attended the University of Alabama.

Other notables: Bolton is a former Board Member at Turning Point Services, a member at Five Points Baptist Church and a member Gideons International. He has been married to his wife for 32 years, as of May 8.

Q: Why did you decide to run for office?

Bolton: "I have experience in governmental management from my career in Law Enforcement, and have built many positive working relationships which help us get things done for our district. Since retirement I have been and am involved with a number of local projects benefitting our communities and have continued to develop positive relationships with various government officials to get things done."

Q: What, in your view, makes you qualified to serve?

Bolton: "My background experience, and that I stand on principle, and I get things done."

Q: What is the biggest individual issue facing House District 61?

Bolton: "It depends on the location. We have serious infrastructure issues on the east side on the district, serious healthcare access issues in the west part of the district, and broadband access issues in the more rural outlying areas. I refer to broadband access as the “electricity and running water on the 21st century” because so many aspects of life are dependent on it. Overall, though at this point inflation and the economy are what is affecting everyone."

Q: What will be the first thing you will do once in office?

Bolton: "Find ways to lower current prices/costs for our neighbors."

Q: What is something about House District 61 that you are particularly proud of?

Bolton: "Our ability to provide good jobs and work force development opportunities for our young graduates. Our district is pretty unique in this respect and we are very lucky. This is the product of long term vision by previous leaders."

Q: What is the most common concern you’ve heard from constituents on the campaign trail?

Bolton: "Mostly inflation (currently), followed by infrastructure, rural healthcare options, and lack of rural broadband service."

Q: In terms of statewide issues, which ones will you immediately begin work once in office?

Bolton: "Again, find ways to lower current prices/costs for our neighbors."

Q: How will you approach working with the local legislative delegation?

Bolton: "Cooperatively. Fortunately I have existing long-term working relationships with all but a couple of the local delegation representatives (who I just don’t know) and will build the remaining bridges through respect and honor."

Q: How do you plan to work with the municipalities and governmental bodies in District 61, like the City of Northport and the Tuscaloosa County Commission?

Bolton: "Again, fortunately, I enjoy excellent long-term working relationships with all elected officials and much of the staff with both of these governments, as well as municipal and county governments in Pickens County."

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